Saudi Pro League side Al Fateh have entered the race to sign Nigerian midfielder Ibrahim Olawoyin from Turkish Super Lig club Çaykur Rizespor, Footy-Africa can exclusively report.
A reliable sources close to the player Fisayo Dairo informed Footy-Africa that Al Fateh have now made their first contact over a potential move for the 28-year-old, adding fresh competition to an already developing transfer battle.
Al Fateh, who finished 11th in the Saudi Pro League last season, have now entered the race for Olawoyin as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign.
The latest development comes after Footy-Africa exclusively revealed that fellow Saudi Pro League side Al-Taawoun had opened talks with Rizespor and submitted an initial bid worth around €800,000 for the Nigerian midfielder.
However, that offer fell short of Rizespor’s €1 million valuation, with the Turkish club yet to respond positively as negotiations remain ongoing.
Footy-Africa understands that Al-Taawoun remain firmly interested and are expected to return with an improved offer, while Al Fateh’s arrival has further complicated the race for Olawoyin’s signature.
Al-Taawoun target Nigerian midfielder Ibrahim Olawoyin with bid for Rizespor star
The Nigerian has entered the final 12 months of his contract with Rizespor, who remain determined to keep hold of one of their most influential players.
The Turkish Super Lig side are still planning to offer Olawoyin a new contract and will continue efforts to convince him to extend his stay despite growing interest from Saudi Arabia.
Footy-Africa also understands that Al-Taawoun have already held discussions with the player’s representatives and are prepared to offer the midfielder a lucrative three-year contract on significantly improved financial terms.
With Al Fateh now making their move, the competition for Olawoyin is expected to intensify over the coming days, although Rizespor are yet to indicate which direction they intend to take.
The Nigerian has become a key figure since joining Rizespor, with his consistency attracting attention from clubs outside Turkey.
Last season, Olawoyin made 28 Turkish Super Lig appearances, scoring one goal and providing three assists.
He was particularly impressive during the 2024-25 campaign, registering six goals and seven assists in 32 league matches, while in the 2023-24 season he made 36 appearances, scoring three goals and providing three assists.
With two Saudi Pro League clubs now actively pursuing his signature and Rizespor eager to retain him, the coming days are expected to be decisive in determining where Olawoyin will play his football next season.
